Properties in the Country
Buying a property in the country is a relatively straightforward process although there are several things that should be considered before you buy an old farmhouse or cute cottage as your weekend getaway. Before you start the search for the perfect place, you are highly recommended to consider where do you want to live – do you want to be as far away from people as possible or would you prefer to be nearer to “civilisation”? Do you want a property with land and will you actually have the time and resources to maintain a large property? The thing is that country life is very different from the impression most people get about it during a vacation.
The cost of properties is another highly important thing to consider because real estates in the country are quite expensive in comparison to homes in urban areas. This is partly related to the fact that most properties include agricultural land and partly to highly restrictive building regulations in the country. These were adopted to preserve the rural character of the countryside and prevent suburban sprawl from taking over the villages and market towns. The authorities have managed to protect the distinct character of the British countryside, however, the adopted measures have also dramatically increased the prices of properties.
Before you start searching for a property that meets both your needs and budget, it is a good idea to consult with an expert about your financial situation and loan or mortgage options. And when making a financial construction, do not forget on various fees and potential costs of repair which are often underestimated. The most affordable properties are often in a very rough condition and renovating them can cost you more than a little bit more expensive real estate in a satisfactory condition. However, be careful with properties that have been renovated shortly before they were offered for sale because these renovations are often carried out only to be able to ask a higher price and may not meet appropriate standards, while some have been carried out to hide more serious problems. A property that looks too good to be true for the price usually is just that.
When searching for the perfect property in the country, be sure to take time to visit them in person and ask as many questions as possible. Be sure to ask about potentially hidden problems such as moisture problems, age and condition of the electrical installation, infrastructure such as the Internet and phone, etc. Also, be sure to ask about renovation-building works that have been carried out by the owner, when and why. If you do not want to take any chances, consider hiring an expert to do the survey for you because it is the only way to make sure that you are really buying what you think you are buying. Check the area for crime statistics and check your home for any adverse security issues. Lastly, keep in mind that many properties in the country are listed buildings. Why? Because you may be required to renovate the property in its original appearance which can be a very expensive undertaking.